When and how to fertilize peonies in spring for lush flowering
Experienced gardeners suggest that if peonies are reluctant to bloom, they need to be fertilized, and at the appropriate time and repeatedly. This was reported by SSPDaily.
If fertilizer was added to the planting hole at the time of planting, additional fertilization is not necessary for the first two years. They will require feeding in the third year.
When to Fertilize Peonies
During the growing season, peonies should be fertilized four times:
- At the beginning of the season, in early spring.
- During the budding period.
- During flowering.
- After flowering.
The First Feeding of Peonies
The initial feeding of peonies is done in early spring, right after the red shoots of the plant emerge 8-10 cm high. This first feeding should aid the plant in quickly forming the required number of stems and leaves. For the initial feeding, mullein infusion is best. To prepare it, mix one part mullein with five parts water. Allow the solution to steep in the sun for 7 days. Before using, dilute with water in a ratio of 1:10. Apply two liters of infusion per bush.
Yeast is also a good option for fertilization during this period. To prepare the correct solution, add 100 g of sugar and 100 g of dry yeast to half a liter of warm water. Stir and leave the solution in a warm place for two hours. For feeding, dilute 750 mg of the solution in 10 liters of water.
Second Feeding During Budding
When the buds begin to appear, the second feeding of the flowers is carried out to stimulate their formation and provide the plant with strength and energy before flowering.
During this period, peonies can be fertilized with the following mixture: combine 10 g of urea, 15 g of potassium sulfate, and 15-20 g of superphosphate, scatter around the plant, and cover with soil.
Potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and other essential trace elements are also present in organic fertilizers, particularly ash. Add 1 liter of ash to the mullein infusion prepared as for the initial feeding. Allow it to steep for an hour. Apply 2 liters of infusion per peony bush.
You can also take slices of half a loaf of any yeast bread, add sugar, and pour 5 liters of warm water. Steep, mash the swollen bread with your hands, and pour this mixture over the peonies.
The Third Feeding of Peonies
Peonies are fertilized for the third time at the beginning of flowering to prolong this period.
Among the folk methods, you can use boric acid and eggshells.
Dissolve 5 mg of boric acid in one liter of hot water, then dilute in 10 liters of water and fertilize just before flowering.
Alternatively, crush dried eggshells and cover with warm water. Allow to infuse. When the infusion begins to emit an unpleasant odor, after about 2 weeks, the fertilizer is ready. Dilute it in a bucket of water and water the soil before flowering.
The Fourth Fertilization of Peonies After Flowering
After the plants have completely faded, the final fertilization of the flowers is carried out to help the plant regain its strength after flowering and prepare for winter.
During this period, do not apply any doses of nitrogen, only potassium and, especially, phosphorus. Feed the plant with 1 tbsp. of superphosphate and 1/2 tbsp. of potassium sulfate or any other potash fertilizer that does not contain chlorine.
